The new Lexus UX is expected to launch in South Africa towards the middle of February 2019, but we’ve already found pricing for the brand’s smallest crossover yet.

The local range – slotting in below the NX, albeit with a slight overlap in term of pricing – will comprise three derivatives at launch and take on the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

First revealed at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2018, the Lexus UX runs on the GA-C version of the Toyota New Global Architecture that underpins the likes of the latest Prius and C-HR.

The local line-up kicks off with the UX200 EX, which is priced at R599 000. This variant employs a naturally aspirated 2,0-litre petrol engine sending 126 kW and 205 N.m to the front axle via a continuously variable transmission. The Japanese firm says the four-cylinder engine facilitates a 9,2-second sprint to three figures, a top speed of 190 km/h and a combined fuel consumption of 6,1 L/100 km.

And specification levels? Well, they’re generous. In fact, even the base EX trim level includes items such as LED head- and taillamps, rain-sensing wipers, 18-inch alloys, heated front seats (trimmed in synthetic leather), cruise control, an eight-speaker premium sound system, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera (feeding the 10,3-inch display), satellite navigation, a pair of rear-sited USB charging points and wireless smartphone charging. As many as eight airbags are included as standard.

Next up is the UX250h SE, which comes in at R699 000. This hybrid model employs a version of the 2,0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated with an electric motor and a newly developed hybrid-specific CVT. The result is a claimed fuel consumption of just 4,5 L/100 km, a top speed of 177 km/h and a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 8,5 seconds. Total system outputs sit at 107 kW and 180 N.m.

The SE specification adds items such as real leather trim for the seats, an automatic high-beam function for the headlamps, electro-chromatic rear-view and side mirrors, adaptive cruise control, a 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, power adjustment for the steering column and a panoramic view monitor. Standard safety features include blind-spot monitoring, a lane-keeping system and hill assist control.

At the summit of the range is the UX200 F Sport, which costs R726 600. Using the same powertrain as the UX200 EX, this flagship model gains (over the mid-range UX250h SE) items such as an F Sport steering wheel, a “sport S+” driving mode (in addition to eco, normal and sport), adaptive variable suspension, alloy pedals and, of course, more aggressive exterior styling.

In South Africa, 13 exterior paint colours will be offered. The EX and hybrid models will be available with five interior colours, while the F Sport model will offer the choice of three cabin hues.

All derivatives boast a seven-year/105 000 km warranty and a maintenance plan of the same length. The hybrid model’s battery adds an eight-year/195 000 km warranty for the battery.

Ryan has spent most of his career in online media, writing about everything from sport to politics and other forms of crime. But his true passion – reignited by a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 still tucked lifeless in a dark corner of his garage – is of the automotive variety.